Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly embody the spirit of the holidays. These festive cookies feature vibrant red and white swirls, making them not only delicious but also visually stunning. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply enjoying at home, these cookies offer a refreshing peppermint flavor that will leave everyone craving more. The unique combination of buttery sweetness and minty freshness makes Peppermint Swirl Cookies a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Eye-Catching Presentation: The striking red and white swirls make these cookies a beautiful addition to any dessert platter.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up a batch.
• Festive Flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint is perfect for holiday celebrations and winter gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for various occasions, from Christmas parties to cozy family nights.
• Fun for All Ages: Baking these cookies is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy together.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully bake Peppermint Swirl Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool simplifies the creaming process, ensuring your butter and sugar blend to a light and fluffy consistency effortlessly.
• Plastic wrap: It helps maintain the dough’s shape during chilling, preventing it from becoming sticky or misshapen while cooling.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the dough log, resulting in neat cookie shapes with beautiful swirls.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For Coloring and Coating

• Red gel food coloring
• 1/4 cup coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg first, then add both the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; stop mixing as soon as a soft dough forms to avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Divide Dough for Coloring

Divide the dough in half. Leave one half plain while adding red gel food coloring to the second half. Mix until you achieve an even color throughout.

Step 5: Chill Dough

Wrap each portion of dough separately in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving sharp swirls later on.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough

Once chilled, roll out the plain dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 10×12 inches on a lightly floured surface. Repeat this step with the red dough to match size and thickness.

Step 7: Layering Doughs

Carefully place the red dough rectangle directly on top of the plain dough rectangle. Gently press them together so they adhere well.

Step 8: Forming The Log

Starting from one long side, carefully roll up the layered dough tightly into a log shape. Press gently as you roll to eliminate air pockets while ensuring even tightness throughout.

Step 9: Second Chill

Wrap the newly formed log tightly in plastic wrap again. Chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours until firm—this prevents squishing when sliced.

Step 10: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 11: Coat The Log

Remove the chilled dough log from refrigeration. If desired, brush it lightly with water or whisked egg white before rolling it in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for an added festive touch.

Step 12: Slice Cookies

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Arrange them about an inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Step 13: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden—be careful not to overbake!

Step 14: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They not only look festive but also taste incredible, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.

For a Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange a selection of cookies on a beautiful platter. Mix them with other holiday treats like gingerbread or sugar cookies for a colorful display.

With Hot Drinks

• Serve these cookies alongside hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee. The refreshing mint flavor complements warm beverages perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon. This makes for charming party favors that guests can take home.

In Gift Baskets

• Include Peppermint Swirl Cookies in homemade gift baskets filled with other baked goods. It’s a thoughtful gesture for friends and family during the holidays.

How to Perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Creating the perfect Peppermint Swirl Cookies requires some attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies come out just right.

• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough not only firms it up but also helps prevent colors from bleeding together, ensuring sharp swirls.
• Use quality extracts: High-quality vanilla and peppermint extracts will enhance the flavor of your cookies, making them even more delicious.
• Roll evenly: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and attractive swirls in each cookie.
• Slice carefully: Use a sharp knife to slice the dough log into rounds. Clean cuts will maintain the integrity of your swirls and give you beautiful cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Peppermint Swirl Cookies can be complemented by several delightful side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Hot Chocolate – Rich and creamy hot chocolate pairs beautifully with peppermint flavors, enhancing the overall experience.
2. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balance to the sweet cookies, providing a refreshing contrast.
3. Cheese Board – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on a cheese board; their creaminess complements the minty sweetness well.
4. Spiced Nuts – Serve spiced nuts as a crunchy side dish; their savory flavor pairs nicely with sweet cookies.
5. Mini Cupcakes – Offer mini cupcakes in complementary flavors like chocolate or vanilla for an adorable dessert spread.
6. Ice Cream – Vanilla or peppermint ice cream served alongside these cookies creates an indulgent dessert combination that’s hard to resist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes while preparing Peppermint Swirl Cookies. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Dough Temperature: Using dough that is too warm can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough as instructed.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too long can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
• Inconsistent Rolling: Rolling the dough unevenly can cause uneven baking. Make sure both layers are rolled to the same thickness for perfect swirls.
• Skipping the Second Chill: Not chilling the log again before slicing can lead to misshapen cookies. This step is crucial for maintaining your swirls.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking cookies too long can dry them out. Watch for lightly golden edges and remove them promptly from the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peppermint Swirl Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peppermint Swirl Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peppermint Swirl Cookies.

How do I achieve better swirls in my Peppermint Swirl Cookies?

To get sharper swirls, ensure you chill the dough thoroughly before rolling and cutting. This helps maintain defined edges.

Can I use different extracts besides peppermint?

Yes! While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or vanilla for unique flavors.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels sticky, dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour as you roll it out. You may also chill it longer before handling.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance, roll it into a log, and freeze it. Slice and bake when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Swirl Cookies are not only visually stunning but also a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors or colors, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or casual snacking. Give this recipe a try and enjoy delicious peppermint goodness!

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Peppermint Swirl Cookies

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Peppermint Swirl Cookies. With their striking red and white swirls, these cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also burst with refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights at home, they offer a unique combination of buttery sweetness and minty freshness that will leave everyone wanting more. Easy to prepare and fun to make together as a family, these cookies embody the joy of holiday baking.

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Ingredients

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• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red gel food coloring
• Coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies for coating

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
2. Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy in a large bowl. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until combined.
3. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Divide dough; color one half with red gel food coloring.
5. Chill both dough halves wrapped in plastic wrap for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll out each half into rectangles; layer them together and roll into a log shape.
7. Chill the log again for about two hours before slicing into rounds.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
9. Coat sliced cookies in coarse sugar or crushed peppermint candies before baking.
10. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden; cool before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg